Idaho has finalized the procedures for its newly constructed execution chamber, which will primarily utilize the firing squad for carrying out death sentences, effective July 1. This policy shift designates Idaho as the sole state in the U.S. where the firing squad is the default method, a move prompted by a botched lethal injection attempt in 2024. Republican Gov. Brad Little, seeking a third term, signed legislation establishing the firing squad as the state's primary execution method, with implementation delayed to allow for the renovation of the execution facility.
The state has invested over $1.2 million in the new execution chamber at the Idaho Maximum Security Institution near Boise. This figure includes more than $900,000 for construction and an additional $314,000 for architectural and engineering services. The state has also acquired five Daniel Defense DD5-P rifles for the executions.
Under the new protocol, executions will involve six volunteer law enforcement officers. Three primary officers will fire their rifles simultaneously at the inmate's heart from approximately 10 yards away, while two alternates will be on standby. A sixth officer will lead the team, manage the rifles, and direct the execution. The identities of these volunteers will be kept confidential. To be eligible, officers must have at least three years of certification, no disciplinary findings related to excessive force or firearms, and no familial ties to the inmate, victim, or their families. Volunteers must also pass rigorous firearms qualification tests.
Before an execution, inmates may receive a mild sedative the day before, with an additional dose several hours prior to the procedure. Once in the chamber, the inmate will be strapped into a chair, with medical equipment attached to monitor vital signs. After the death warrant is read and a final statement is offered, the order to fire will be given. Medical personnel will monitor the inmate's heart activity for up to two minutes. If the inmate survives the initial volley, a second round of shots can be authorized before death is pronounced by the county coroner.
To maintain readiness, firing squad members are required to undergo quarterly live-fire training and participate in regular execution rehearsals. Weekly training sessions and multiple full rehearsals will commence once an execution warrant is signed.
The shift to the firing squad follows the failed execution of convicted murderer Thomas Eugene Creech in February 2024, where staff spent approximately an hour attempting to establish an IV line for lethal injection before abandoning the procedure. Idaho currently has eight inmates on death row.
Supporters of the firing squad method argue it offers a more reliable alternative to lethal injection, citing past difficulties with drug availability and execution procedures nationwide. However, critics, including Robin Maher, executive director of the Death Penalty Information Center, argue that new execution methods have historically failed to resolve ethical concerns surrounding capital punishment and have been introduced with promises of being more humane, which have not always been met. Maher also criticized the significant taxpayer expense for implementing a method she characterized as potentially flawed.
Idaho Department of Correction Director Bree Derrick stated that the department recognizes the gravity of carrying out court-ordered executions and that procedures are designed to ensure the process is secure, orderly, and dignified, while safeguarding rights and maintaining staff and public safety.